Is vmware strictly for 64-bit systems??

[cyberoptiq]

I only have 32-bit Linux laptops and would like to install vmware and Hadoop for learning purposes. Is this possible or do I have to use 64-bit systems only?? This is putting a dent in my learning Hadoop specifically because I'm looking to make a career change from working in command centers or NOC's to Hadoop programming and/or Hadoop system administration. Appreciate any assistance anyone can provide.

Thanks!!

[rcporto]

Since version 4.x it is supported only on 64-bit systems, but the old versions 3.x can run on 32-bit systems, see: Minimum system requirements for installing ESXi/ESX (1003661) | VMware KB

But, about your laptops, they are really 32-bit hardware or have Guest OS running 32-bit? I ask that, because all recent hardware are 64-bit capable.

[cyberoptiq]

But, about your laptops, they are really 32-bit hardware or have Guest OS running 32-bit? - Except for maybe 2-3 laptops they are all hand-me-downs and store bought laptops which are all pretty much 32-bit systems....they had Windoze installed on them and I installed Linux on them.....

I ask that, because all recent hardware are 64-bit capable. - Didn't know that....so will I be able to install the newer version of vmware or will I have to use the older images?? I'm guessing if I try the 64-bit images I'm going to get an error because that's what happens in Linux if you try install a 64-bit OS on a 32-bit system....thanks for your help, Richardson....greatly appreciated!!

[rcporto]

If you hardware is really 32-bit you will not be able to install a 64-bit system, you will get a error message similar with the one you get when tried to install the Linux. Note that VMware requires additional instructions like Virtualization support that not all 64-bit supports, so I will recommend you check if your hardware are capable using one of the following ways present in that blog post: 3 Easy Ways to to Check If Your Processor Supports Virtualization

[cyberoptiq]

This is what I found on Intel's website when I did a Google search for the processor in the laptop I'm using right now:

I guess it's ok to use 64-bit vm's on my box if I understand the above correctly? Thanks again....

[rcporto · Accepted solution]

Assuming you selected the correct model, yes, you're able to run 64-bit virtual machines in your laptop with the correct configuration.

[cyberoptiq]

I copied the model number from the System Info page on my Linux laptop....thanks for your help, Richardson....greatly appreciated....

[rcporto]

You're welcome and don't forget mark answers as correct or helpful.